OK, maybe the exploits of that anti-immigration, tough guy lawman, Maricopa County, Ariz., Sheriff Joe Arpaio, beats Clarke’s latest performance. But it would be a close call.

Clarke, still smarting from having his budget cut and always loving a headline or a radio gig, tells residents in his latest radio spot, “With officers laid off and furloughed, simply calling 911 and waiting is no longer your best option. You could beg for mercy from a violent criminal, hide under the bed, or you can fight back.”

Clarke says listeners need to take a firearm course and get a weapon.

“You have a duty to protect yourself and your family. We're partners now. Can I count on you?”

Let’s hope not.

About the last thing Milwaukee County – especially the city of Milwaukee – needs is more guns on the streets. More vigilante justice.

Because, make no mistake, that’s what our sheriff is advocating. Vigilantism.

“Apparently, Sheriff David Clarke is auditioning for the next Dirty Harry movie,” said the office of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett in a statement.

And Jeri Bonavia, executive director of Wisconsin Anti-Violence Effort, said she hears “over and over” that most law enforcement officials would like fewer weapons facing them on the streets - not more. “I do know what he’s calling for is dangerous and irresponsible and he should be out there saying this is a mistake.”

But Clarke, of course, won’t see it that way – not if he gets another headline or another few minutes spouting off on the radio talk shows. No matter how irresponsible the statement.